The Delegation of the European Union (EU) in Namibia recently launched the EU-Namibia Youth Sounding Board (YSB), a ground-breaking initiative that aims to create real, long-lasting change in how the EU engages with young people in its policy work and cooperation around the world.
This youth-centric platform will provide a unique opportunity for young Namibians to voice to the EU their perspectives, ideas and concerns on critical issues affecting their lives and communities.
The EU-Namibia YSB will advocate for youth-centred policies and initiatives, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of the younger generation are integrated into the EU’s development cooperation.
Through the EU-Namibia YSB, the EU seeks to amplify the voices of young people and ensure their opinions are heard and valued in decision-making processes.
Namibia became the 11th African country to establish this youth-centric platform.
“We believe that young people are the driving force behind positive change in any society, as their energy, creativity and passion have the potential to shape a brighter future for Namibia,” said EU ambassador Sinikka Antila at the launch.
She stated that through this platform, they aim to create an inclusive and participatory space for the youth to be heard, respected and acted upon.
The launch took place in the presence of EU member states in Namibia (Finland, France, Germany, Portugal and Spain), who expressed their interest and commitment to support this new mechanism.
The EU-Namibia YSB has three pillars of action: engage by increasing young people’s voices in EU policy and decision-making, including programming at all levels through constructive dialogue; connect by fostering opportunities for young people to network and exchange with their peers, as well as empower young Namibians by providing them with a space to express their views on matters that directly impact their lives, such as education, employment, social justice, climate action and sustainable development.